Frostbite - Alternative treatments
Topical applications
The goal is to warm up the frostbitten area and increase blood circulation
- DMSO
- Transdermal cayenne pepper cream / lotion / oil or 0.025 – 0.075% capsaicin gel or cream (sold OTC). Cayenne’s active ingredient capsaicin relieves pain by numbing sensory nerves (gradually reduces substance P, a chemical necessary for nerves to send pain signals to the brain) and also increases circulation to warm and heal the frostbite.
- Apply as necessary
- DIY cayenne pepper recipe: Mix half a teaspoon cayenne pepper into 1 cup carrier oil (E.g. olive oil or comfrey oil) or lotion (containing natural ingredients).
- Cayenne pepper can also be consumed for a systemic effect throughout the blood. Add 1 tsp pepper to warm / hot water, stir and get it down.
- Alcohol-free Witch hazel (Hamamelis Virginiana) can be applied to frostbite to promote healing
- Fresh aloe vera. When applied, soothes frostbite and promotes tissue regeneration.